Systems and methods for delivering an ocular implant to the suprachoroidal space within an eye

ABSTRACT

Delivery devices, systems and methods are provided for inserting an implant into an eye. The delivery or inserter devices or systems can be used to dispose or implant an ocular stent or implant, such as a shunt, in communication with the suprachoroidal space, uveal scleral outflow pathway, uveoscleral outflow path or supraciliary space of the eye. The implant can drain fluid from an anterior chamber of the eye to a physiologic outflow path of the eye, such as, the suprachoroidal space, uveal scleral outflow pathway, uveoscleral outflow path or supraciliary space. Alternatively, or in addition, the implant can elute a drug or therapeutic agent. The delivery or inserter devices or systems can be used in conjunction with other ocular surgery, for example, but not limited to, cataract surgery through a preformed corneal incision, or independently with the inserter configured to make a corneal incision. The implant can be preloaded with or within the inserter to advantageously provide a sterile package for use by the surgeon, doctor or operator.

RELATED APPLICATION

This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/790,759, filed Mar. 15, 2013, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD

This disclosure generally relates to intraocular pressure reduction and more specifically to systems, devices and methods for delivering an intraocular implant to the suprachoroidal space within an eye to treat glaucoma, ocular hypertension and/or other ocular disorders.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

A human eye is a specialized sensory organ capable of light reception and is able to receive visual images. Aqueous humor is a transparent liquid that fills at least the region between the cornea, at the front of the eye, and the lens. A trabecular meshwork, located in an anterior chamber angle, which is formed between the iris and the cornea, normally serves as a drainage channel for aqueous humor from the anterior chamber so as to maintain a balanced pressure within the anterior chamber of the eye.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases encompassing a broad spectrum of clinical presentations, etiologies, and treatment modalities. Glaucoma causes pathological changes in the optic nerve, visible on the optic disk, and it causes corresponding visual field loss, resulting in blindness if untreated. Lowering intraocular pressure is a major treatment goal in all glaucomas.

In glaucomas associated with an elevation in eye pressure (intraocular hypertension), a main source of resistance to outflow is typically in the trabecular meshwork. The tissue of the trabecular meshwork normally allows the aqueous humor (hereinafter also referred to as “aqueous”) to enter Schlemm's canal, which then empties into aqueous collector channels in the posterior wall of Schlemm's canal and then into aqueous veins, which form the episcleral venous system. Aqueous is continuously secreted by ciliary bodies around the lens, so there is a constant flow of aqueous from the ciliary body to the anterior chamber of the eye. Pressure within the eye is determined by a balance between the production of aqueous and its exit through the trabecular meshwork (major route) and uveoscleral outflow (minor route) pathways. The portion of the trabecular meshwork adjacent to Schlemm's canal (the juxtacanilicular meshwork) can cause most of the resistance to aqueous outflow.

While a majority of the aqueous leaves the eye through the trabecular meshwork and Schlemm's canal, it is believed that at least about 10 to about 20 percent of the aqueous in humans leaves through the uveoscleral pathway. The degree with which uveoscleral outflow contributes to the total outflow of the eye appears to be species dependent. As used herein, the term “uveoscleral outflow pathway” is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art (and it is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning), and refers without limitation to the space or passageway whereby aqueous exits the eye by passing through the ciliary muscle bundles located at or near an angle of the anterior chamber and into the tissue planes between the choroid and the sclera, which extend posteriorly to the optic nerve. From these tissue planes, it is believed that the aqueous travels through the surrounding scleral tissue and drains via the scleral and conjunctival vessels, or is absorbed by the uveal blood vessels.

It is unclear from studies whether the degree of physiologic uveoscleral outflow is pressure-dependent or pressure-independent. As used herein, the term “supraciliary space” is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art (and it is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning), and refers without limitation to the portion of the uveoscleral pathway through the ciliary muscle and between the ciliary body and the sclera, and the term “suprachoroidal space” is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art (and it is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning), and refers without limitation to the portion of the uveoscleral pathway between the choroid and sclera.

Glaucoma is broadly classified into two categories: closed-angle glaucoma, also known as angle closure glaucoma, and open-angle glaucoma. Closed-angle glaucoma is caused by closure of the anterior chamber angle by contact between the iris and the inner surface of the trabecular meshwork. Closure of this anatomical angle prevents normal drainage of aqueous from the anterior chamber of the eye.

Open-angle glaucoma is any glaucoma in which the exit of aqueous through the trabecular meshwork is diminished while the angle of the anterior chamber remains open. For most cases of open-angle glaucoma, the exact cause of diminished filtration is unknown. Primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common of the glaucomas, and is often asymptomatic in the early to moderately advanced stages of glaucoma. Patients may suffer substantial, irreversible vision loss prior to diagnosis and treatment.

Most current therapies for glaucoma are directed toward decreasing intraocular pressure. Medical therapy includes topical ophthalmic drops or oral medications that reduce the production of aqueous or increase the outflow of aqueous. However, drug therapies for glaucoma are sometimes associated with significant side effects. The most frequent and perhaps most serious drawback to drug therapy, especially the elderly, is patient compliance. Patients often forget to take their medication at the appropriate times or else administer eye drops improperly, resulting in under- or overdosing. Patient compliance is particularly problematic with therapeutic agents requiring dosing frequencies of three times a day or more, such as pilocarpine. Because the effects of glaucoma are irreversible, when patients dose improperly, allowing ocular concentrations to drop below appropriate therapeutic levels, further permanent damage to vision occurs. Furthermore, current drug therapies are targeted to be deposited directly into the ciliary body where the aqueous is produced. And current therapies do not provide for a continuous slow-release of the drug. When drug therapy fails, surgical therapy is pursued.

Surgical therapy as currently pursued suffers from many disadvantages. These include, a proper protocol for the medical practitioner to follow so as to introduce a suprachoroidal implant on a patient's eye without. Additionally, such a surgical procedure can involve many pre- and post-operative procedures which can add to overall inefficiency and cause the operation to involve a significant amount of costs. As such, making it harder for a patient to undertake such a surgery and reluctance on the part of the doctor to prescribe same.

SUMMARY

As such, a need exists for a more facile, convenient, less invasive, and less traumatic means of delivering an intraocular pressure controlling implant into an eye while providing a cost-effective but safe surgical procedure. It is one advantage of certain embodiments of the invention(s) disclosed herein to provide delivery devices, systems and methods are provided for inserting an implant into an eye. The delivery or inserter devices or systems can be used to dispose or implant an ocular stent or implant, such as a shunt, in communication with the suprachoroidal space, uveal scleral outflow pathway, uveoscleral outflow path or supraciliary space of the eye. The implant can drain fluid from an anterior chamber of the eye to a physiologic outflow path of the eye, such as, the suprachoroidal space, uveal scleral outflow pathway, uveoscleral outflow path or supraciliary space. Alternatively, or in addition, the implant can elute a drug or therapeutic agent. The delivery or inserter devices or systems can be used in conjunction with other ocular surgery, for example, but not limited to, cataract surgery through a preformed corneal incision, or independently with the inserter configured to make a corneal incision. The implant can be preloaded with or within the inserter to advantageously provide an operator friendly package, such as a sterile package, for use by the surgeon, doctor or operator.

As used herein, “implants” refers to ocular implants which can be implanted into any number of locations in the eye. In some embodiments, the ocular implants are drainage implants designed to facilitate or provide for the drainage of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of an eye into a physiologic outflow pathway in order to reduce intraocular pressure. In some embodiments, the implant can be configured to provide a fluid flow path for draining aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to a uveoscleral outflow pathway. In some embodiments, the aqueous humor is diverted to the supraciliary space or the suprachoroidal space of the uveoscleral outflow pathway.

The term “implant” as used herein is a broad term, and is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art (and it is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning), and refers without limitation to drainage shunts, stents, sensors, drug delivery implants, drugs, therapeutic agents, fluids, or any other device or substance capable of being permanently or temporarily inserted within an eye and left within a body after removal of a delivery instrument.

If desired, more than one implant of the same or different type may be implanted. For example, the implants disclosed herein may be used in combination with trabecular bypass shunts, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication 2004/0050392, and those described in U.S. Patent Publication 2005/0271704, filed Mar. 18, 2005. Additionally, implantation may be performed in combination with other surgical procedures, such as cataract surgery. All or a portion of the implant may be coated, e.g. with heparin, preferably in the flow path, to reduce blood thrombosis or tissue restenosis.

Certain embodiments of some of the inventions disclosed, taught or suggested herein are set forth in the appended claims.

For purposes of summarizing embodiments of the invention(s), certain aspects, advantages and novel features of the invention have been described herein above. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught or suggested herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

All of these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the invention herein disclosed. These and other embodiments of the invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments having reference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited to any particular preferred embodiment(s) disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus summarized the general nature of some of the embodiments of the invention(s) and some of their features and advantages, certain preferred embodiments and modifications thereof will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description herein having reference to the figures that follow, which are intended to illustrate and not to limit the disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a simplified schematic sectional view of a portion of an eye illustrating certain ocular anatomical features thereof and therein.

FIG. 2 is a simplified perspective view of an implant delivery or inserter system or device, preloaded with an ocular implant which is shown in DETAIL A of the figure, illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a simplified exploded perspective view of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 2 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a simplified partially cut-off side view of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 2 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a simplified side view of an ocular implant, stent or shunt illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a simplified bottom or lower view of the ocular implant, stent or shunt of FIG. 5 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a simplified top or upper view of the ocular implant, stent or shunt of FIG. 5 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a simplified sectional view along line 8-8 of the ocular implant, stent or shunt of FIG. 7 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a simplified side view of an insertion sleeve, tube or needle of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 2 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a simplified perspective view of an insertion sleeve, tube or needle device or assembly of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 2, including the insertion sleeve, tube or needle of FIG. 9, illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 11 is a simplified side view of the insertion sleeve, tube or needle device or assembly of FIG. 10 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 12 is a simplified perspective of a trocar device or assembly of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 2 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 13 is a simplified side view of the trocar device or assembly of FIG. 12 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 14 is a simplified distal end view of the trocar device or assembly of FIG. 12 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 15 is a simplified proximal end view of the trocar device or assembly of FIG. 12 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 16 is a simplified perspective view of a trocar trigger of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 2 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 17 is a simplified perspective view of a safety clip of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 2 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIGS. 18 to 22 are simplified schematic views illustrating a surgical procedure or method of implanting an ocular implant in the suprachoroidal space of an eye using the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 2, having features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments, wherein:

FIG. 18 illustrates insertion of the implant and the delivery or inserter system or device into an anterior chamber of the eye;

FIG. 19 illustrates positioning of the implant at the implantation site;

FIG. 20 illustrates advancement and implantation of the implant in the suprachoroidal space;

FIG. 21 illustrates retraction of a trocar of the delivery or inserter system or device from the suprachoroidal space; and

FIG. 22 illustrates the removal of the delivery or inserter system or device from the anterior chamber of the eye with the implant remaining within the eye.

FIG. 23 is a simplified perspective view of an implant delivery or inserter system or device, preloaded with an ocular implant, illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 24 is a simplified exploded perspective view of the implant delivery or inserter system or device, including the implant, of FIG. 23 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 25 is a simplified side view of a penetration needle, sleeve or tube of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 23 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 26 is a simplified bottom or lower view of the penetration needle, sleeve or tube of FIG. 25 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 27 is a simplified perspective view of a penetration needle, sleeve or tube device or assembly of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 23, including the penetration needle, sleeve or tube of FIG. 25, illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 28 is a simplified side view of the penetration needle, sleeve or tube device or assembly of FIG. 27 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 29 is a simplified top or upper view of the penetration needle, sleeve or tube device or assembly of FIG. 27 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 30 is a simplified sectional view along line 30-30 of FIG. 29 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 31 is a simplified perspective view of a trocar device or assembly of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 23 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 32 is a simplified side view of the trocar device or assembly of FIG. 31 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 33 is a simplified perspective view of a trocar trigger of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 23 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 34 is a simplified perspective view of a pusher tube device or assembly of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 23 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 35 is a simplified side view of the pusher tube device or assembly of FIG. 34 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 36 is a simplified perspective view of a pusher tube trigger of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 23 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 37 is a simplified perspective detail view from FIG. 24 of the engagement between a collar of the trocar assembly and the trocar trigger and between a collar of the pusher tube assembly and the pusher tube trigger illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 38 is a simplified perspective view of a distal end of the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 23 (without the cover) showing the trocar and pusher tube positioning at different positions of the trocar and pusher tube triggers illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIGS. 39 to 44 are simplified schematic views illustrating a surgical procedure or method of implanting an ocular implant in the suprachoroidal space of an eye using the implant delivery or inserter system or device of FIG. 23, having features and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments, wherein:

FIG. 39 illustrates insertion of the implant and the delivery or inserter system or device into an anterior chamber of the eye through an incision made by an insertion needle of the delivery or inserter system or device;

FIG. 40 illustrates deployment of a trocar and a pusher tube of the delivery or inserter system or device such that the implant is exposed within the anterior chamber;

FIG. 41 illustrates positioning of the implant at the implantation site;

FIG. 42 illustrates advancement and implantation of the implant in the suprachoroidal space;

FIG. 43 illustrates retraction of a trocar of the delivery or inserter system or device from the suprachoroidal space; and

FIG. 44 illustrates the removal of the delivery or inserter system or device from the anterior chamber of the eye with the implant remaining within the eye.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The preferred embodiments of the invention described herein relate generally to intraocular pressure reduction and, in particular, to systems, devices and methods for delivering an intraocular implant to the suprachoroidal space, supraciliary space or other anatomical space within an eye to treat glaucoma, ocular hypertension and/or other ocular disorders.

While the description sets forth various embodiment specific details, it will be appreciated that the description is illustrative only and should not be construed in any way as limiting the invention. Furthermore, various applications of the invention, and modifications thereto, which may occur to those who are skilled in the art, are also encompassed by the general concepts described herein.

FIG. 1 shows relative anatomical features of an eye 10. These include an anterior chamber 32 and a sclera 38 which is a thick collagenous tissue that covers the entire eye 10 except a portion that is covered by a cornea 36. The cornea 36 is a thin transparent tissue that focuses and transmits light into the eye and through a pupil 42, which is a generally circular hole in the center of an iris 44 (colored portion of the eye), to a lens 48. The cornea 36 merges into the sclera 38 at a juncture referred to as a limbus 45. Ciliary bodies 46 are vascular tissue that extend along the interior of the sclera 38 from the outer edges of the iris in the limbal region to a choroid 40.

The anterior chamber 32 of the eye 10, which is bound anteriorly by the cornea 36 and posteriorly by the iris 44 and the lens 48, is filled with aqueous humor, aqueous fluid or simply referred herein as aqueous. Aqueous is produced primarily by the ciliary bodies 46 and flows into the posterior chamber, bounded posteriorly by the lens 48 and anteriorly by the iris 44. The aqueous humor then flows anteriorly through the pupil 42 and into the anterior chamber 32 until it reaches an anterior chamber angle 50, formed generally between the iris 44 and the cornea 36.

In a normal eye, at least some of the aqueous humor drains from the anterior chamber 32 through a trabecular meshwork into Schlemm's canal and thereafter through a plurality of collector ducts and aqueous veins, which merge with blood-carrying veins, and into systemic venous circulation. Intraocular pressure is maintained by an intricate balance between secretion and outflow of aqueous humor in the manner described above. Glaucoma is, in most cases, characterized by an excessive buildup of aqueous humor in the anterior chamber 32, which leads to an increase in intraocular pressure. Fluids are relatively incompressible, and thus intraocular pressure is distributed relatively uniformly throughout the eye 10.

The choroid 40 is a vascular layer of the eye 10 located between the sclera 38 and a retina (not shown). An optic nerve (not shown) transmits visual information to the brain and is the anatomic structure that is progressively destroyed by glaucoma, ocular hypertension, and/or other ocular or ophthalmic disorders.

Another naturally existing aqueous drainage route is provided through a suprachoroidal space, supraciliary space, uveal scleral outflow path or pathway or uveoscleral outflow path or pathway 34 which is a space or region generally defined between the sclera 38 and the choroid 40. The suprachoroidal space 34 is exposed to the anterior chamber 32 through the anterior chamber angle 50. The tissue connection between the anterior chamber 32 and suprachoroidal space 34 is generally via a fibrous attachment zone 60 generally disposed between a scleral spur 62 and iris processes 64 and/or ciliary muscle 66 which is a part of the choroid 40.

Certain embodiments of suprachoroidal implants, delivery devices, associated components and suprachoroidal implantation methods and procedures, and the like, among others, are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0228127 A1, published Sep. 18, 2008, to Burns et al., and assigned to Glaukos Corporation of Laguna Hills, Calif., the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Delivery Device for Advancing Implant Through Pre-Formed Corneal Incision

FIGS. 2-4 show different views of an implant delivery or inserter system, instrument or device 110, preloaded with an ocular implant 120, in accordance with some embodiments. The delivery device 110 is configured to implant the implant 120 in the suprachoroidal space 34 of the eye 10. In some embodiments, the delivery method is an ab interno procedure. In some embodiments, the implant delivery procedure is performed in combination with other ocular surgery, such as, cataract surgery, and the implant is delivered through a preformed corneal incision.

The implant preloaded delivery device 110 can be provided in a sterile packaging for single-use operation. For example, a double polythene bag may be used for sterility purposes, in combination with a blister packaging to facilitate use by the operator while still maintaining safe usage.

The delivery device 110 is generally elongate in structure, and generally comprises an outer housing and handpiece 122, an implant retainer 124, an insertion sleeve, tube or needle device or assembly 126, a trocar device or assembly 128, a trocar trigger 130, a trigger safety clip or device 132 and a pair of solid glue preform structures 134 a and 134 b.

The outer housing 122 encloses various componentry of the delivery device 110 and can comprise two housing portions such as a left housing portion 136 a and a right housing portion 136 b, which can be attached during fabrication of the delivery device 110.

Selected portions of the housing 122 have ergonomic features such as the hand grip area 138 a which has a ribbed texture or the like to facilitate manual handling by a surgeon, medical operator or practitioner (a similar hand grip area is provided on the right housing portion 136 b). Various internal structures of the outer housing 122 engage the other components of the delivery device 110, as discussed further below.

The outer housing 122 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the outer housing 122 comprises a thermoplastic material such as medical grade polycarbonate (PC) that is gamma stable.

The outer housing 122 can efficaciously be dimensioned in various suitable manners, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the outer housing 122 has a length of about 5.60 inches, though other lengths may also be efficaciously utilized, for example, based on the size of the user's hand (e.g., between about 4 inches and about 8 inches or any length in between).

The implant retainer 124 (see FIG. 2) is a generally disc shaped structure that is removably mounted on a distal tip of the trocar device 128 just distally of the implant 120. The implant retainer 124 is removed before the delivery device 110 is used. The implant retainer 124 may prevent undesirable movement of the implant 120 and prevent the implant 120 from sliding off the distal tip of the trocar device 128 during packaging, shipping and travel of the implant preloaded delivery device 110.

The implant retainer 124 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the implant retainer 124 comprises molded silicone.

The insertion sleeve, tube or needle device or assembly 126 generally comprises an insertion sleeve, tube or needle 140 and a support sleeve, member or element 142 fixedly attached thereto and to the outer housing 122. Distal portions of the insertion sleeve or needle 140 and support member or element 142 are exposed and extend beyond the distal tip of the delivery device 110 while proximal portions of the insertion sleeve or needle 140 and support member or element 142 are contained within the outer housing 122. The insertion sleeve device 126 is discussed in further detail later herein.

The trocar device or assembly 128 generally comprises a trocar 144 and a trocar clip or support member or element 146 attached thereto. The trocar clip 146 is mechanically coupled, connected or attached to the actuatable trocar trigger 130. A substantial portion of the trocar 144 extends through the insertion sleeve 140 with a distal portion extending beyond the insertion sleeve 140 on which the implant 120 is located. A proximal portion of the trocar 144 and the trocar clip 146 are contained within the outer housing 122. The trocar device 128 is discussed in further detail later herein.

The trocar trigger 130 generally comprises an upper finger or thumb actuatable portion 148 and a lower main body portion 150. The actuatable trigger portion 148 generally extends above the housing 122 while the main body portion 150 is generally contained within the housing 122. Before use, the trocar trigger 130 is in a forward position and when in use it is utilized to retract the trocar 144. The trigger main body portion 150 is mechanically coupled, connected or attached to the trocar device 128. The trocar trigger 130 is discussed in further detail later herein.

The trigger safety clip 132 is removable and is positioned generally rearwardly with respect to the trocar trigger 130 and is mechanically coupled or engaged with the trocar trigger 130. The trigger safety clip 132 prevents undesirable motion of the trocar trigger 130 during packaging, shipping and travel of the implant preloaded delivery device 110, as also discussed further below.

The glue blocks or preforms 134 a and 134 b are mounted on each side of the trocar trigger 130 and within the outer housing 122. The glue blocks or structures 134 a and 134 b may advantageously provide a safety function to disallow reuse of the delivery device 110 so as to prevent any cross-contamination between unauthorized reuse of the single use device 110. As discussed further below, the glue blocks 134 a and 134 b can be configured to melt, dissolve or otherwise shrink or disappear when any unapproved re-sterilization of the delivery device 110 is attempted and lock or jam the trocar trigger 130 so that its movement is thwarted. In some embodiments, a hot melt adhesive is used to freeze the trigger mechanism and prevent use after autoclave.

FIGS. 5-8 show different views of the ocular implant, stent or shunt 120 in accordance with some embodiments. The implant 120 generally comprises an elongate implant body 151 and a proximal implant sleeve 152. The implant 120 and/or the implant body 151 comprises a lumen, channel, pathway or passage 154 extending therethrough for drainage of fluid or aqueous from the anterior chamber 32 to the suprachoroidal space 34 and a plurality of generally circumferential retention features or structures, ribs, rings or anchors 156 to facilitate implantation and retention and/or stability in the suprachoroidal space 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the implant 120 comprises four retention features; however, other numbers of retention features may be used.

The implant 120 and/or the implant body 151 further comprises respective distal and proximal ribs, flanges or stops 158 and 160 which hold the sleeve 152 in place. Moreover, the proximal structure 160 is dimensioned so that the implant cannot move rearwardly with respect to the distal end of the insertion sleeve 140.

Advantageously, the implant 120 and/or the implant body 151 has a predetermined curvature and/or flexibility that substantially matches and/or allows for proper insertion in the suprachoroidal space 34. The lumen 154, in accordance with certain embodiments, allows for drainage or flow of fluid or aqueous from the anterior chamber 32 to the suprachoroidal space 34. The length of the implant 120 can range from about 1 mm to about 8 mm (e.g., 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm).

The implant 120 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the implant body 151 comprises a plastic, such as polyethersulfone (PES), and the sleeve 152 comprises a metal or alloy, such as titanium or a titanium alloy. In some embodiments, the sleeve 152 provides a visual aid in determining the proper depth of stent placement during implantation (e.g., radiopaque marker).

The implant 120, in some embodiments, can also comprise a therapeutic agent or drug. For example, at least a portion of the implant 120 is coated with a therapeutic agent or drug. In one embodiment, at least the implant lumen 154 is coated with a therapeutic agent or drug, such as, but not limited to, heparin or the like.

The implant 120 can be efficaciously dimensioned in various suitable manners, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the radius of curvature R₈ is about 1 inch, the diameter D₈ is about at least 0.0063 inches, and the diameter D₅ is about at least 340 microns. The implant 120 can be symmetrically designed such that it may be used in either the left or right eye. Other implants can be delivered by the delivery devices 110, 210 in addition to the implant 120.

FIGS. 9-11 show different views of the insertion sleeve, tube or needle device or assembly 126 and insertion sleeve, tube or needle 140 in accordance with some embodiments. The insertion sleeve 140 is a generally elongated tubular structure with a lumen 162 extending therethrough and a distal curved or non-linear portion 164 to desirably facilitate ab interno suprachoroidal implantation.

The insertion sleeve support 142 is an elongated member through which a portion of the sleeve 140 extends and is fixedly attached thereto. The insertion sleeve support 142 includes a collar 166 which mates with a corresponding portion of the outer housing 122 to fixedly attach these structures.

The insertion sleeve 140 receives a portion of the trocar 144 which passes through the sleeve lumen 162. The sleeve distal curved or non-linear portion 164 advantageously provides proper curvature and alignment of the trocar 144 and/or the implant 120 for suprachoroidal implantation.

The insertion sleeve device 126 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the insertion sleeve 140 and sleeve support 142 comprise a liquid crystal polymer or thermoplastic such as polycarbonate which are molded to form the assembly. In another non-limiting embodiment, the insertion sleeve 140 and sleeve support 142 comprise stainless steel and are welded (spot or continuous) to form the assembly. The insertion sleeve 140 can efficaciously comprise 26±5 gauge hypodermic tubing, as required or desired, including 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 31 gauge.

The insertion sleeve device 126 can be efficaciously dimensioned in various suitable manners, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the length L₉₁ is about 1.8 inches, the length L₉₂ is about 0.06 inches, the diameter D₉₁ is about 0.018 inches, the diameter D₉₂ is about 0.001 inches, the radius of curvature R₉ is about 0.11 inches, and the angle θ₉ is about 28° (degrees).

FIGS. 12-15 show different views of the trocar device or assembly 128, in accordance with some embodiments. The trocar 144 is a generally elongated structure with a curved or non-linear distal portion 168 with a distal-most end 170 that is configured to optimally penetrate ocular tissue so as to access the suprachoroidal space 34.

The trocar 144 extends through the trocar clip 146 which is configured to engage the trocar trigger 130, and be retractable on actuation of the trigger 130. The curved distal portion 168 may have a predetermined curvature to allow a proper angle of attack to penetrate ocular tissue to provide access for implantation of the implant 120 in the suprachoroidal space 34.

In some embodiments, the trocar clip 146 is configured to mechanically engage, couple, connect or fixedly attach to a recessed portion of the trocar trigger 130. Thus, actuation or retraction of the trocar trigger 130 results in movement and retraction of the trocar 144.

The trocar device 128 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the trocar 144 comprises a metal or metal alloy such as spring tempered 304 stainless steel with a predetermined flexibility and resilience, and the trocar clip 146 comprises a metal or metal alloy such as 301 stainless steel with a predetermined hardness. The trocar 144 and trocar clip 146 can be welded together, such as, denoted by weld spots 172, or otherwise attached in other suitable manners, for example molding and the like, as needed or desired.

The trocar device 128 can be efficaciously dimensioned in various suitable manners, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the radius of curvature R₁₃ of the trocar distal curved portion 168 is about 1 inch (which generally conforms to the implant's radius of curvature and may prevent implant creep), the diameter D₁₃ is about 0.006 inches (which provides a low tolerance fit within the implant's lumen), the length L₁₃ is about 0.17 inches, the overall unbent length of the trocar 144 is about 2.3 inches, and the radius of curvature of the trocar distal end tip 170 is in the range from about 0.001 to about 0.003 inches. In various embodiments, the radius of curvature R₁₃ of the trocar distal curved portion 168 can range from 0.4 inches to about 2.2 inches.

FIG. 16 shows a different view of the trocar trigger 130, in accordance with some embodiments. The ergonomic upper finger or thumb touch portion 148 has a ribbed texture configuration to facilitate its actuation by the operator. The lower main body portion 150 has several features that allow for the operation of the trocar trigger 130.

The trigger body portion 150 comprises a slot, cavity, opening or recessed portion 171 which mates with and attaches to a portion of the trocar clip 146 thereby effectively coupling and connecting the trigger 130 and the trocar 144. The trigger body portion 150 also comprises multiple pins 174 disposed generally symmetrically on either side which slidably engage the internal structure of the housing 122 such as the left and right slots therein, one of which slots is depicted by reference numeral 178 b in FIGS. 3 and 4.

The trigger body portion 150 further comprises slots 176 on each side which respectively receive the glue preformed blocks 134 a and 134 b that are mounted therein. As noted above, and discussed further herein, these glue blocks can be configured to melt, dissolve, or otherwise shrink or disappear and lock the trigger 130 to prevent unapproved use for the safety of the patient. Other reuse prevention mechanisms may also be used. In some embodiments, a hot melt adhesive is used to freeze the trigger mechanism and prevent use after autoclave.

The trocar trigger 130 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the trocar trigger 130 comprises a plastic or thermoplastic, such as polyethylene.

FIG. 17 shows a different view of the removable trigger safety clip 132, in accordance with some embodiments. A safety clip upper portion 178 is exposed above the housing 122 and a safety clip lower portion 180 is contained within the housing 122.

As noted earlier, the trigger safety clip 132 prevents undesirable motion of the trocar trigger 130 during packaging, shipping and travel of the implant preloaded delivery device 110. The safety clip lower portion 180 is engaged with the trocar trigger 130 prior to use of the delivery device 110 and, by manipulation of the safety clip upper portion 178, the trigger safety clip 132 is removed from the device prior to the surgical procedure.

The safety clip 132 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the safety clip 132 comprises a thermoplastic such as a polycarbonate, for example, Makrolon® 2458.

The delivery device 110 generally comprises, but is not limited to, materials composed of stainless steel, molded plastic and silicone, among others and equivalents thereof.

Methods of Implant Delivery Through Pre-Formed Corneal Incision

FIGS. 18-22 show some steps or acts of a surgical procedure or method of implanting the ocular implant 120 in the suprachoroidal space 34 of the eye 10 using the implant delivery or inserter system or device 110 in accordance with some embodiments. Given the details in the figures the surgical method should be self-explanatory, however some textual description is provided below.

A cohesive viscoelastic is added to the anterior chamber, as needed, to maintain IOP for use of a gonioprism (surgeons may select a cohesive viscoelastic of their preference, including but not limited to, Healon, Amvisc or Provisc) through the incision created for implant or stent implantation or cataract surgery, as noted further below.

The gonioprism is placed on the cornea. The surgical microscope and patient are positioned to provide clear visualization of the trabecular meshwork on the nasal side of the eye through the gonioprism. The patient's head is tilted as far as practical away from the surgeon, and the microscope is tilted toward the surgeon to ensure a proper viewing angle.

The anterior chamber angle is inspected using the gonioprism to ensure good visualization at the nasal implant location.

The implant preloaded delivery device 110 is removed from the blister tray and the implant retainer 124 is removed from the implant distal end or tip and trocar tip under the microscope (e.g., using fine forceps) without disrupting the implant position and taking care that the implant 120 does not slide off the trocar 144.

The safety clip 132 is then removed, taking care once again that the implant 120 does not slide off the trocar 144, and that the trocar trigger 130 is maintained in the forward position by the operator, and does not slide rearward.

If required, the anterior chamber can be deepened by injecting additional cohesive viscoelastic into the anterior chamber to aid in chamber maintenance. The inserter tip can be coated with a small drop of viscoelastic, as required.

In accordance with some embodiments, the implantation surgery is performed in conjunction with another ophthalmic procedure, such as cataract surgery, and as illustrated in FIG. 18, the delivery instrument 110 with the implant 120 preloaded thereon at a distal portion thereof is introduced or inserted into the anterior chamber 32 through a preexisting or preformed corneal incision 70. The insertion sleeve or needle 140 extends through the incision 70 and into the anterior chamber 32. The trocar trigger 130 is maintained in the forward position by the operator. The delivery device 110 is advanced to the papillary margin before replacing the gonioprism onto the eye. In some embodiments, care is taken to avoid contact with the lens 48, cornea 36 and iris 44.

As illustrated in FIG. 19, the implant 120 is advanced across the anterior chamber 32 to the anterior chamber angle 50 towards the scleral spur 62, and positioned at the implantation site with the trocar distal end 170 adjacent the fibrous attachment zone 60. The trocar trigger 130 is maintained in the forward position by the operator. In accordance with some embodiments, the angle of attack θ₁₉ is about 15° (degrees), though 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20° (degrees) or other attack angles may efficaciously be utilized, as needed or desired.

Next, as illustrated in FIG. 20, the trocar distal tip or end 170 penetrates through the tissue of and/or adjacent the fibrous attachment zone 60 and the implant 120 is advanced until its implantation position has been reached in the suprachoroidal space 34 with a predetermined portion of the implant sleeve 152 extending into the anterior chamber 32. The trocar trigger 130 is maintained in the forward position by the operator. (Stated differently, a generally narrow passage is created into the suprachoroidal space by gently separating the iris processes away from the scleral spur with the tip of the insertion trocar until the anterior and posterior portions of the scleral spur are substantially fully visible on a limited area—e.g., create an approximately 0.5 mm to a maximum of about 1 mm width opening. The implant or stent is then advanced until the anterior surface of the implant or stent is substantially tangent to the posterior margin of the scleral spur. With finger or thumb firmly on the trocar trigger in the forward position, the trocar/implant are carefully advanced into the suprachoroidal space until the implant proximal sleeve just passes the scleral spur and enters the suprachoroidal space—in some embodiments, approximately half (or about 0.4 mm to about 0.7 mm) of the implant sleeve remains in the anterior chamber.

Next, as illustrated in FIG. 21, the trocar trigger 130 is moved in a rear or proximal direction 182 by the operator so that the trocar 144 is retracted from the implant lumen 154 and the suprachoroidal space 34. (Stated differently, once the implant or stent is in position at the proper depth, the trocar trigger button is slid backwards until the implant or stent is released.)

As illustrated in FIG. 22, the delivery device 110 may then be retracted and the insertion sleeve 140 can be removed from the anterior chamber 32 with the implant 120 remaining within the eye 10 and implanted in the suprachoroidal space 34.

In some embodiments, the operator confirms that the implant is in a proper position (i.e., the proximal end rests in the anterior chamber with an unobstructed inlet) using the operating microscope and gonioprism. The anterior chamber can be irrigated and aspirated with balanced salt solution (BSS) to remove all viscoelastic. If needed, the posterior edge of the incision is pressed down to facilitate substantially complete removal of the viscoelastic. The anterior chamber can then be inflated with saline solution to achieve physiologic pressure, as required.

Delivery Device for Advancing Implant Through Device-Formed Corneal Incision

FIGS. 23 and 24 show different views of an implant delivery or inserter system, instrument or device 210, preloaded with an ocular implant 220, in accordance with some embodiments. The delivery device 210 is configured to deliver and position the implant 220 in the suprachoroidal space 34 of the eye 10. In some embodiments, the delivery method is an ab interno procedure. In some embodiments, the implant is delivered through a self-sealing corneal incision formed by a corneal penetration needle of the delivery device.

The delivery device 210 can be provided in a sterile packaging for single-use operation. For example, a double polythene bag may be used for sterility purposes, in combination with a blister packaging to facilitate use by the operator while still maintaining safe usage.

The delivery device 210 is generally elongate in structure, and generally comprises an outer housing and handpiece 222, a removable protective tube 224, an insertion or corneal penetration needle device or assembly 226, a trocar device or assembly 228, a trocar trigger 230, a pusher tube device or assembly 328, a pusher tube trigger 330, a trigger safety clip or device 232 and two pairs of solid glue preform structures 234 a, 234 b and 334 a, 334 b.

The outer housing 222 is similar to the housing 122 and encloses various componentry of the delivery device 210 and can comprise two housing portions such as a left housing portion 236 a and a right housing portion 236 b, which are attached during fabrication of the delivery device 210.

Selected portions of the housing 222 have ergonomic features such as the hand grip area 238 a which has a ribbed texture or the like to facilitate manual handling by a surgeon, medical operator or practitioner (a similar hand grip area is provided on the right housing portion 236 b). Various internal structures of the outer housing 222 engage the other components of the delivery device 210, as discussed further below.

The outer housing 222 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the outer housing 222 comprises a thermoplastic material, such as medical grade polycarbonate (PC) that is gamma stable.

The outer housing 222 can efficaciously dimensioned in various suitable manners, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the outer housing 222 has a length of about 5.60 inches, though other lengths may also be efficaciously utilized, for example, based on the size of the user's hand (e.g., from about 4 inches to about 8 inches and any length in between).

The protective cover tube 224 is removably mounted on a portion of the insertion needle device 226 that extends beyond a distal end of the housing 222. The protective cover tube 224 is removed before the delivery device 210 is used. The purpose of the protective cover tube 224 is to protect the insertion needle device 226 and the components therein during packaging, shipping and travel of the implant preloaded delivery device 210.

The protective cover tube 224 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the protective cover tube 224 comprises a thermoplastic, such as low density polyethylene (LDPE).

The insertion needle device or assembly 226 generally comprises an corneal penetration or insertion needle 240 and a support sleeve, member or element 242 fixedly attached thereto and to the outer housing 222. Optionally, a seal 243 is provided to further protect the inner componentry of the delivery device 210 from undesirable fluid entrance. Distal portions of the insertion needle 240 and support member or element 242 are exposed and extend beyond the distal tip of the delivery device 210 while proximal portions of the insertion needle 240 and support member or element 242 are contained within the outer housing 222. Portions of the needle may comprise a hydrophilic or hydrophobic coating. The insertion needle device 226 is discussed in further detail later herein.

The trocar device or assembly 228 generally comprises a trocar 244 and a trocar collar or support member or element 246 fixedly attached thereto. The trocar collar 246 is mechanically coupled, connected or attached to the actuatable trocar trigger 230. A substantial distal portion of the trocar 244 extends through the insertion needle 240 (and pusher tube) with a distal end portion also extending through the implant 220. A proximal portion of the trocar 244 and the trocar collar 246 are contained within the outer housing 222. The trocar device 228 is discussed in further detail later herein.

The trocar trigger 230 generally comprises an upper finger or thumb actuatable portion 248 and a lower main body portion 250. The actuatable trigger portion 248 generally extends above the housing 222 while the main body portion 250 is generally contained within the housing 222. Before use, the trocar trigger 230 is in a rear position and when in use it is utilized to first advance and then retract the trocar 244. The trigger main body portion 250 is mechanically coupled, connected or attached to the trocar device 228. The trocar trigger 230 is also mechanically and/or operatively coupled to the pusher tube trigger 330. The trocar trigger 230 is discussed in further detail later herein.

The pusher tube device or assembly 328 generally comprises a pusher tube 344 and a trocar collar or support member or element 346 fixedly attached thereto. The pusher tube collar 346 is mechanically coupled, connected or attached to the actuable pusher tube trigger 330. A substantial distal portion of the pusher tube 344 extends through the insertion needle 340 with a distal end being positioned proximally of the implant 220. A proximal portion of the pusher tube 344 and the pusher tube collar 346 are contained within the outer housing 222. The pusher tube device 328 is discussed in further detail later herein.

The pusher tube trigger 330 generally comprises an upper portion 348 distally proximate to the upper finger or thumb actuable trocar trigger portion 248 and a lower main body portion 350. The upper portion 348 generally extends above the housing 222 while the main body portion 350 is generally contained within the housing 222. Before use, the pusher tube trigger 330 is in a rear position and when in use it is utilized to advance the pusher tube 344 (and the implant 220). The trigger main body portion 350 is mechanically coupled, connected or attached to the pusher tube device 328. The pusher tube trigger 330 is also mechanically and/or operatively coupled to the trocar trigger 230. The pusher tube trigger 330 is discussed in further detail later herein.

The trigger safety clip 232 is removable and is positioned generally forwardly with respect to the pusher tube trigger 330 and is mechanically coupled or engaged with the pusher tube trigger 330. In some embodiments, the trigger safety clip 232 prevents undesirable motion of the pusher tube trigger 330 and the trocar trigger 230 during packaging, shipping and travel of the implant preloaded delivery device 210. The trigger safety clip 232 is substantially the same in structure as the trigger safety clip 132 discussed above, and as such this structure is not discussed in much further detail herein.

The glue blocks or preforms 234 a, 234 b and 334 a, 334 b are mounted on each side of the trocar trigger 230 and the pusher tube trigger 330 respectively, and within the outer housing 222. The glue blocks or structures 234 a, 234 b and 334 a, 334 b advantageously provide a safety function to disallow reuse of the delivery device 210 so as to prevent any cross-contamination between unauthorized reuse of the single use device 210. As discussed further below, the glue blocks 234 a, 234 b and 334 a, 334 b are configured to melt when any unapproved re-sterilization of the delivery device 210 is attempted and lock or jam the trocar trigger 230 and the pusher tube trigger 330 so that their movement is thwarted. In some embodiments, a hot melt adhesive is used to freeze the trigger mechanism and prevent use after autoclave.

The implant 220 has an implant body 251 with a proximal sleeve 252 and is located within a distal end portion of the insertion needle 240 when the delivery device 210 is preloaded with the implant during packaging, storage and before use. The implant 220 is substantially the same in structure as the implant 120 discussed above, and as such this structure is not discussed in much further detail herein.

FIGS. 25-40 show different views of the insertion or corneal penetration needle device or assembly 226 and insertion or corneal penetration needle 240 in accordance with some embodiments. The insertion needle 240 is a generally elongated tubular structure with a lumen 262 extending therethrough and a distal curved or non-linear portion 264 to desirably facilitate ab interno suprachoroidal implantation. The insertion needle 240 has a distal end cutting tip 265 which allows corneal penetration by the device to desirably form a self-sealing incision. The cutting tip 265 is advantageously sized, shaped and dimensioned to form such a self-sealing incision.

The insertion needle support 242 is an elongated member through which a portion of the needle 240 extends and is attached thereto. The insertion needle support 242 includes a collar 266 which mates with a corresponding portion of the outer housing 222 to fixedly attach these structures.

The seal 243 is mounted on a proximal end portion of the insertion needle 240. The seal 243 may advantageously protect the inner componentry of the delivery device 210 from undesirable fluid entrance and engages an internal structure of the device 210 and/or housing 222. The insertion needle 240 may comprise a hydrophilic or hydrophobic coating along at least a portion of its length.

The insertion needle 240 receives a portion of the pusher tube 344 that passes through the needle lumen 262 and contains the preloaded implant 220 distal of the pusher tube 344, which in turn receives a portion of the trocar 244. The needle distal curved or non-linear portion 264 advantageously provides proper curvature and alignment of the trocar 244 and the implant 220 for suprachoroidal implantation.

The insertion needle device 226 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the insertion sleeve 240 and sleeve support 242 comprise stainless steel and are welded (spot or continuous) to form the assembly, and the seal 243 can comprise silicone or the like. The insertion or corneal penetration needle 240 can efficaciously comprise 25±5 gauge hypodermic tubing, as required or desired, including, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30 gauge.

The insertion needle device 226 can efficaciously be dimensioned in various suitable manners, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the length L₂₅₁ is about 1.22 inches, the curved length L₂₅₂ is about 0.3 inches, the diameter D₂₅ is about 0.02 inches, the radius of curvature R₂₅ is about 1 inch, and the width W₂₆ is about 0.031 inches. The radius of curvature R₂₅ can have the same or substantially the same radius of curvature as the trocar 244.

FIGS. 31 and 32 show different views of the trocar device or assembly 228, in accordance with some embodiments. The trocar 244 is a generally elongated structure with a curved or non-linear distal portion 268 with a distal-most end 270 which is configured to optimally penetrate ocular tissue so as to access the suprachoroidal space 34.

The trocar 244 extends through the trocar collar or support member or element 246 which is configured to engage the trocar trigger 230, and be advancable and retractable on actuation of the trigger 230. The curved distal portion 268 has a predetermined curvature to allow a proper angle of attack to penetrate ocular tissue to provide access for implantation of the implant 220 in the suprachoroidal space 34.

More particularly, a collar portion 247 of the trocar collar 246 is mechanically engaged, coupled, connected or fixedly attached to a recessed portion of the trocar trigger 230. Thus, actuation, advancement or retraction, of the trocar trigger 230 results in movement, advancement and retraction, of the trocar 244.

The trocar device 228 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the trocar 244 comprises a metal or metal alloy such as spring tempered 304 stainless steel with a predetermined flexibility and resilience, and the trocar collar 246 comprises a metal or metal alloy such as 303 stainless steel with predetermined properties. The trocar 244 and trocar collar 246 can be welded together (spot or continuous welding), or otherwise attached in other suitable manners, for example molding and the like, as needed or desired.

The trocar device 228 can efficaciously be dimensioned in various suitable manners, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the radius of curvature R₃₂ of the trocar distal curved portion 268 is about 1 inch (which generally conforms to the needle's, pusher tube's and implant's radius of curvature and prevents implant creep and disorientation), the diameter D₃₂ is about 0.006 inches (which provides a low tolerance fit within the implant's lumen), the curved length L₃₂₁ is about 0.67 inches, the length L₃₂₂ is about 2.1 inches, the overall unbent length of the trocar 244 is about 3.15 inches, the radius of curvature of the trocar distal end tip 270 is in the range from about 0.001 to about 0.003 inches, and the dimension H₃₂ is about 0.22 inches. In various embodiments, the radius of curvature R₃₂ of the trocar distal curved portion 268 can range from 0.4 inches to about 2.2 inches.

FIG. 33 shows a different view of the trocar trigger 230, in accordance with some embodiments. The ergonomic upper finger or thumb touch portion 248 has a ribbed texture configuration to facilitate its actuation by the operator. The lower main body portion 250 has several features that allow for the operation of the trocar trigger 230.

The trigger body portion 250 comprises a slot, cavity, opening or recessed portion 271 which mates with and attaches to a portion of the trocar collar portion 247 thereby effectively coupling and connecting the trigger 230 and the trocar 244. The trigger body portion 250 also comprises multiple pins 274 disposed generally symmetrically on either side which slidably engage the internal structure of the housing 222 such as the left and right slots therein, one of which slots is depicted by reference numeral 278 b in FIG. 24.

The trigger body portion 250 further comprises slots 276 on each side which respectively receive the glue preformed blocks 234 a and 234 b that are mounted therein. As noted above, and discussed further herein, these glue blocks melt and lock the trigger 230 to prevent unapproved use for the safety of the patient. In some embodiments, a hot melt adhesive is used to freeze the trigger mechanism and prevent use after autoclave.

The trocar trigger 230 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the trocar trigger 230 comprises a plastic or thermoplastic, such as polyethylene.

FIGS. 34 and 35 show different views of the pusher tube device or assembly 328, in accordance with some embodiments. The pusher tube 344 is a generally elongated structure with a curved or non-linear distal portion 368.

The pusher tube 344 extends from the pusher tube collar or support member or element 346 which is configured to engage the pusher tube trigger 330, and be advancable on actuation of the trigger 330, and desirably be lockable thereafter. The curved distal portion 368 has a predetermined curvature to allow a proper angle of attack for the trocar 244 to penetrate ocular tissue to provide access for implantation of the implant 220 in the suprachoroidal space 34.

More particularly, a collar portion 347 of the pusher tube collar 346 mechanically engages, couples, connects or fixedly attaches to a recessed portion of the pusher tube trigger 330. Thus, actuation and advancement of the pusher tube trigger 330 results in movement and advancement of the pusher tube 344.

The pusher tube device 328 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the pusher tube 344 comprises nitinol tubing, and the pusher tube collar 346 comprises nitinol bar stock. The pusher tube 344 and collar 346 can be welded together (spot or continuous welding), or otherwise attached in other suitable manners, for example molding and the like, as needed or desired.

The pusher tube device 328 can efficaciously be dimensioned in various suitable manners, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the radius of curvature R₃₅ of the pusher tube distal curved portion 368 is about 1 inch (which generally conforms to the needle's, trocar's and implant's radius of curvature and prevents implant creep and disorientation), the diameter D₃₅ is about 0.014 inches (which provides a low tolerance fit within the needle's lumen), the curved length L₃₅₁ is about 0.5 inches, the length L₃₅₂ is about 2.1 inches, and the overall unbent length of the pusher tube 344 is about 2.57 inches. In various embodiments, the radius of curvature R₃₅ of the pusher tube distal curved portion 368 can range from 0.4 inches to about 2.2 inches.

FIG. 36 shows a different view of the pusher tube trigger 330, in accordance with some embodiments. The upper trigger portion 348 is distally disposed of the trocar trigger portion 248 and actuable with movement of same. The lower main body portion 350 has several features that allow for the operation of the pusher tube trigger 330.

The trigger body portion 350 comprises a slot, cavity, opening or recessed portion 371 which mates with and attaches to a portion of the pusher tube collar portion 347 thereby effectively coupling and connecting the trigger 330 and the pusher tube 344. The trigger body portion 350 also comprises multiple pins 374 disposed generally symmetrically on either side which slidably engage the internal structure of the housing 222 such as the left and right slots therein, one of which slots is depicted by reference numeral 278 b in FIG. 24.

The trigger body portion 350 further comprises slots 376 on each side which respectively receive the glue preformed blocks 334 a and 334 b that are mounted therein. As noted above, and discussed further herein, these glue blocks melt and lock the trigger 330 to prevent unapproved use for the safety of the patient.

The pusher tube trigger 330 can efficaciously be fabricated from various suitable materials, as required or desired. In one non-limiting embodiment, the pusher tube trigger 330 comprises a plastic or thermoplastic such as polyethylene.

FIG. 37 is a detailed view illustrating the attachment or mating between the trocar device 228 and the trocar trigger 230 and that between the pusher tube device 328 and the pusher tube trigger 330. In particular, the trocar device collar portion 247 engages and is received within the trocar trigger recessed portion 271 and the pusher tube collar portion 347 engages and is received within the pusher tube trigger recessed portion 371, thereby operatively coupling the trocar 244 with its trigger and the pusher tube 344 with its trigger.

FIG. 38 illustrates certain exemplary and non-limiting dimensions based on the positions of the trocar trigger 230 and the pusher tube trigger 330. In the upper drawing, both triggers are in the forward position and the length L₃₈₁ is about 0.002 inches. In the lower drawing, the pusher tube trigger 330 is in a fully forward position, and in some embodiments locked, and the trocar trigger 230 is retracted, and the length L₃₈₂ is about 0.064 inches.

The delivery device 210 generally comprises, but is not limited to, materials composed of stainless steel, molded plastic and nitinol, among others and equivalents thereof.

Methods of Implant Delivery Through Device-Formed Corneal Incision

FIGS. 39-44 illustrate steps or acts of a surgical procedure or method of implanting the ocular implant 220 in the suprachoroidal space 34 of the eye 10 using the implant delivery or inserter system or device 210 in accordance with some embodiments. Given the details in the figures the surgical method should be self-explanatory, however some textual description is provided below.

A surgical microscope and the patient are positioned to provide a substantially clear visualization of the trabecular meshwork through a gonioprism on the nasal side of the eye. The patient's head can be tilted as far as practical from the surgeon, and the microscope can be tilted toward the surgeon to ensure a proper viewing angle.

The delivery device 210 is removed from its package. The protective cover tube 224 is carefully removed from the insertion needle and the safety clip 232 holding the triggers is removed by the operator taking care that the triggers 230 and 330 are maintained in the rear position.

The gonioprism is placed on the cornea, and the anterior chamber angle is inspected using the gonioprism to ensure a good visualization at the nasal implant location. The gonioprism is then removed.

FIG. 39 illustrates formation of a self-sealing incision 270 by the insertion or corneal penetration needle 240, and more particularly, the cutting distal end tip 265 of the needle 240 of the delivery device 210, such that a portion of the needle 240 extends into the anterior chamber 32. At this stage, both the trocar trigger 230 and the pusher tube trigger 330 are maintained in the rear position by the operator. (Stated differently, a temporal clear corneal incision is made using a sharp cutting tip of the device. If a clear corneal incision has already been made, a cohesive viscoelastic may be used to maintain the anterior chamber before passing the needle 240 through the incision.)

FIG. 40 illustrates forward deployment of the triggers such that the implant 220 is exposed and advanced within the anterior chamber 32 along with the trocar 240 such that the trocar distal end tip 270 extends by a predetermined distance beyond the implant 220. (Stated differently, once the insertion needle enters the eye and is past the pupillary margin, the trocar trigger (and as such the pusher tube trigger) are advanced to the fully forward position exposing the implant or stent and the trocar tip 270.)

As illustrated in FIG. 41, the implant 220 is advanced across the anterior chamber 32 and positioned at the implantation site with the trocar distal end 270 adjacent the fibrous attachment zone 60. At this stage, both triggers are maintained in the forward position by the operator, with the pusher tube trigger 330 desirably locked in position so that the implant 220 cannot be proximally displaced. The angle of attack θ₄₁ is about 15° (degrees), though 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20° (degrees) or other attack angles may efficaciously be utilized, as needed or desired. (Stated differently, the gonioprism is placed on the cornea, and the trocar/implant are guided across the anterior chamber to the nasal angle. Care is taken to avoid contact with the lens, cornea and iris. The trocar/implant are advanced to the anterior chamber angle just posterior to the scleral spur.)

Next, as illustrated in FIG. 42, the trocar distal tip or end 270 penetrates through the tissue of and/or adjacent the fibrous attachment zone 60 and the implant 220 is advanced until its implantation position has been reached in the suprachoroidal space 34 with a predetermined portion of the implant sleeve 252 extending into the anterior chamber 32. The trocar trigger 230 is maintained in the forward position by the operator at this stage. (Stated differently, a generally narrow passage is created into the suprachoroidal space by gently separating the iris processes away from the scleral spur with the tip of the insertion trocar until the anterior and posterior portions of the scleral spur are substantially fully visible on a limited area—e.g., create an approximately 0.5 mm to a maximum of about 1 mm width opening. The trocar/implant are continued to be advanced along the posterior margin of the scleral spur. With finger or thumb holding the rear/trocar trigger in the forward position, the trocar/implant are carefully advanced into the suprachoroidal space until the implant proximal sleeve just passes the scleral spur and enters the suprachoroidal space—in some embodiments, approximately half (or about 0.4 mm to about 0.7 mm) of the implant sleeve remains in the anterior chamber.

Next, as illustrated in FIG. 43, the trocar trigger 230 is moved in a rear or proximal direction 282 by the operator so that the trocar 244 is retracted from the implant lumen and the suprachoroidal space 34. (Stated differently, once the implant or stent is in position at the proper depth, the trocar trigger button is slid backwards until the implant or stent is released.)

As illustrated in FIG. 44, the delivery device 210 is retracted and the insertion needle 240 is removed from the anterior chamber 32 with the implant 220 remaining within the eye 10 and implanted in the suprachoroidal space 34. The incision 270 desirably self-seals.

In some embodiments, the operator confirms that the implant is in a proper position (i.e., the proximal end rests in the anterior chamber with an unobstructed inlet) using the operating microscope and gonioprism. The anterior chamber can be irrigated and aspirated with balanced salt solution (BSS) to remove all viscoelastic, if used. If needed, the posterior edge of the incision is pressed down to facilitate substantially complete removal of the viscoelastic, if used. The anterior chamber can then be inflated with saline solution to achieve physiologic pressure, as required.

Drugs and Therapeutic Agents

In some embodiments, the implants disclosed herein can provide for delivery of a therapeutic agent or drug. The therapeutic agent can be, for example, an intraocular pressure-lowering drug. In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent or drug is introduced concurrently with the delivery of the shunt to the eye. The therapeutic agent or drug can be part of the implant itself. For example, the therapeutic agent or drug can be embedded in the material of the shunt, or coat at least a portion of the implant. The therapeutic agent or drug may be present on various portions of the implant. For example, the therapeutic agent or drug may be present on the distal end of the implant, or the proximal end of the implant. The implant can include combination of therapeutic agents or drugs. The different therapeutic agents or drugs can be separated or combined. One kind of therapeutic agent or drug can be present at the proximal end of the implant, and a different kind of therapeutic agent or drug can be present at the distal end of the implant. For example, an anti-proliferative agent may be present at the distal end of the implant to prevent growth, and a growth-promoting agent may be applied to the proximal end of the implant to promote growth.

Examples of drugs may include various anti-secretory agents; antimitotics and other anti-proliferative agents, including among others, anti-angiogenesis agents such as angiostatin, anecortave acetate, thrombospondin, VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs such as ranibizumab (LUCENTIS®) and bevacizumab (AVASTIN®), pegaptanib (MACUGEN®), sunitinib and sorafenib and any of a variety of known small-molecule and transcription inhibitors having anti-angiogenesis effect (additional non-limiting examples of such anti-VEGF compounds are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0228127, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference); classes of known ophthalmic drugs, including: glaucoma agents, such as adrenergic antagonists, including for example, beta-blocker agents such as atenolol, propranolol, metipranolol, betaxolol, carteolol, levobetaxolol, levobunolol and timolol; adrenergic agonists or sympathomimetic agents such as epinephrine, dipivefrin, clonidine, aparclonidine, and brimonidine; parasympathomimetics or cholingeric agonists such as pilocarpine, carbachol, phospholine iodine, and physostigmine, salicylate, acetylcholine chloride, eserine, diisopropyl fluorophosphate, demecarium bromide); muscarinics; carbonic anhydrase inhibitor agents, including topical and/or systemic agents, for example acetozolamide, brinzolamide, dorzolamide and methazolamide, ethoxzolamide, diamox, and dichlorphenamide; mydriatic-cycloplegic agents such as atropine, cyclopentolate, succinylcholine, homatropine, phenylephrine, scopolamine and tropicamide; prostaglandins such as prostaglandin F2 alpha, antiprostaglandins, prostaglandin precursors, or prostaglandin analog agents such as bimatoprost, latanoprost, travoprost and unoprostone.

Other examples of drugs may also include anti-inflammatory agents including for example glucocorticoids and corticosteroids such as betamethasone, cortisone, dexamethasone, dexamethasone 21-phosphate, methylprednisolone, prednisolone 21-phosphate, prednisolone acetate, prednisolone, fluorometholone, loteprednol, medrysone, fluocinolone acetonide, triamcinolone acetonide, triamcinolone, beclomethasone, budesonide, flunisolide, fluticasone, hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone acetate, loteprednol, rimexolone and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents including, for example, diclofenac, flurbiprofen, ibuprofen, bromfenac, nepafenac, and ketorolac, salicylate, indomethacin, ibuprofen, naxopren, piroxicam and nabumetone; anti-infective or antimicrobial agents such as antibiotics including, for example, tetracycline, chlortetracycline, bacitracin, neomycin, polymyxin, gramicidin, cephalexin, oxytetracycline, chloramphenicol, rifampicin, ciprofloxacin, tobramycin, gentamycin, erythromycin, penicillin, sulfonamides, sulfadiazine, sulfacetamide, sulfamethizole, sulfisoxazole, nitrofurazone, sodium propionate, aminoglycosides such as gentamicin and tobramycin; fluoroquinolones such as ciprofloxacin, gatifloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, norfloxacin, ofloxacin; bacitracin, erythromycin, fusidic acid, neomycin, polymyxin B, gramicidin, trimethoprim and sulfacetamide; antifungals such as amphotericin B and miconazole; antivirals such as idoxuridine trifluorothymidine, acyclovir, gancyclovir, interferon; antimicotics; immune-modulating agents such as antiallergenics, including, for example, sodium chromoglycate, antazoline, methapyriline, chlorpheniramine, cetrizine, pyrilamine, prophenpyridamine; anti-histamine agents such as azelastine, emedastine and levocabastine; immunological drugs (such as vaccines and immune stimulants); MAST cell stabilizer agents such as cromolyn sodium, ketotifen, lodoxamide, nedocrimil, olopatadine and pemirolastciliary body ablative agents, such as gentimicin and cidofovir; and other ophthalmic agents such as verteporfin, proparacaine, tetracaine, cyclosporine and pilocarpine; inhibitors of cell-surface glycoprotein receptors; decongestants such as phenylephrine, naphazoline, tetrahydrazoline; lipids or hypotensive lipids; dopaminergic agonists and/or antagonists such as quinpirole, fenoldopam, and ibopamine; vasospasm inhibitors; vasodilators; antihypertensive agents; angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors; angiotensin-1 receptor antagonists such as olmesartan; microtubule inhibitors; molecular motor (dynein and/or kinesin) inhibitors; actin cytoskeleton regulatory agents such as cyctchalasin, latrunculin, swinholide A, ethacrynic acid, H-7, and Rho-kinase (ROCK) inhibitors; remodeling inhibitors; modulators of the extracellular matrix such as tert-butylhydro-quinolone and AL-3037A; adenosine receptor agonists and/or antagonists such as N-6-cylclophexyladenosine and (R)-phenylisopropyladenosine; serotonin agonists; hormonal agents such as estrogens, estradiol, progestational hormones, progesterone, insulin, calcitonin, parathyroid hormone, peptide and vasopressin hypothalamus releasing factor; growth factor antagonists or growth factors, including, for example, epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor, platelet derived growth factor or antagonists thereof, transforming growth factor beta, somatotrapin, fibronectin, connective tissue growth factor, bone morphogenic proteins (BM's); cytokines such as interleukins, CD44, cochlin, and serum amyloids, such as serum amyloid A.

Other therapeutic agents may include neuroprotective agents such as lubezole, nimodipine and related compounds, and including blood flow enhancers such as dorzolamide or betaxolol; compounds that promote blood oxygenation such as erythropoeitin; sodium channels blockers; calcium channel blockers such as nilvadipine or lomerizine; glutamate inhibitors such as memantine nitromemantine, riluzole, dextromethorphan or agmatine; acetylcholinsterase inhibitors such as galantamine; hydroxylamines or derivatives thereof, such as the water soluble hydroxylamine derivative OT-440; synaptic modulators such as hydrogen sulfide compounds containing flavonoid glycosides and/or terpenoids, such as ginkgo biloba; neurotrophic factors such as glial cell-line derived neutrophic factor, brain derived neurotrophic factor; cytokines of the IL-6 family of proteins such as ciliary neurotrophic factor or leukemia inhibitory factor; compounds or factors that affect nitric oxide levels, such as nitric oxide, nitroglycerin, or nitric oxide synthase inhibitors; cannabinoid receptor agonsists such as WIN55-212-2; free radical scavengers such as methoxypolyethylene glycol thioester (MPDTE) or methoxypolyethlene glycol thiol coupled with EDTA methyl triester (MPSEDE); anti-oxidants such as astaxathin, dithiolethione, vitamin E, or metallocorroles (e.g., iron, manganese or gallium corroles); compounds or factors involved in oxygen homeostasis such as neuroglobin or cytoglobin; inhibitors or factors that impact mitochondrial division or fission, such as Mdivi-1 (a selective inhibitor of dynamin related protein 1 (Drp1)); kinase inhibitors or modulators such as the Rho-kinase inhibitor H-1152 or the tyrosine kinase inhibitor AG1478; compounds or factors that affect integrin function, such as the Beta 1-integrin activating antibody HUTS-21; N-acyl-ethanaolamines and their precursors, N-acyl-ethanolamine phospholipids; stimulators of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptors (e.g., glucagon-like peptide 1); polyphenol containing compounds such as resveratrol; chelating compounds; apoptosis-related protease inhibitors; compounds that reduce new protein synthesis; radiotherapeutic agents; photodynamic therapy agents; gene therapy agents; genetic modulators; auto-immune modulators that prevent damage to nerves or portions of nerves (e.g., demyelination) such as glatimir; myelin inhibitors such as anti-NgR Blocking Protein, NgR(310)ecto-Fc; other immune modulators such as FK506 binding proteins (e.g., FKBP51); and dry eye medications such as cyclosporine A, delmulcents, and sodium hyaluronate.

Other therapeutic agents that may be used include: other beta-blocker agents such as acebutolol, atenolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, asmolol, labetalol, nadolol, penbutolol, and pindolol; other corticosteroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents such aspirin, betamethasone, cortisone, diflunisal, etodolac, fenoprofen, fludrocortisone, flurbiprofen, hydrocortisone, ibuprofen, indomethacine, ketoprofen, meclofenamate, mefenamic acid, meloxicam, methylprednisolone, nabumetone, naproxen, oxaprozin, prednisolone, prioxicam, salsalate, sulindac and tolmetin; COX-2 inhibitors like celecoxib, rofecoxib and. Valdecoxib; other immune-modulating agents such as aldesleukin, adalimumab (HUMIRA®), azathioprine, basiliximab, daclizumab, etanercept (ENBREL®), hydroxychloroquine, infliximab (REMICADE®), leflunomide, methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, and sulfasalazine; other anti-histamine agents such as loratadine, desloratadine, cetirizine, diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, dexchlorpheniramine, clemastine, cyproheptadine, fexofenadine, hydroxyzine and promethazine; other anti-infective agents such as aminoglycosides such as amikacin and streptomycin; anti-fungal agents such as amphotericin B, caspofungin, clotrimazole, fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, terbinafine and nystatin; anti-malarial agents such as chloroquine, atovaquone, mefloquine, primaquine, quinidine and quinine; anti-mycobacterium agents such as ethambutol, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, rifampin and rifabutin; anti-parasitic agents such as albendazole, mebendazole, thiobendazole, metronidazole, pyrantel, atovaquone, iodoquinaol, ivermectin, paromycin, praziquantel, and trimatrexate; other anti-viral agents, including anti-CMV or anti-herpetic agents such as acyclovir, cidofovir, famciclovir, gangciclovir, valacyclovir, valganciclovir, vidarabine, trifluridine and foscarnet; protease inhibitors such as ritonavir, saquinavir, lopinavir, indinavir, atazanavir, amprenavir and nelfinavir; nucleotide/nucleoside/non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors such as abacavir, ddI, 3TC, d4T, ddC, tenofovir and emtricitabine, delavirdine, efavirenz and nevirapine; other anti-viral agents such as interferons, ribavirin and trifluridiene; other anti-bacterial agents, including cabapenems like ertapenem, imipenem and meropenem; cephalosporins such as cefadroxil, cefazolin, cefdinir, cefditoren, cephalexin, cefaclor, cefepime, cefoperazone, cefotaxime, cefotetan, cefoxitin, cefpodoxime, cefprozil, ceftaxidime, ceftibuten, ceftizoxime, ceftriaxone, cefuroxime and loracarbef; other macrolides and ketolides such as azithromycin, clarithromycin, dirithromycin and telithromycin; penicillins (with and without clavulanate) including amoxicillin, ampicillin, pivampicillin, dicloxacillin, nafcillin, oxacillin, piperacillin, and ticarcillin; tetracyclines such as doxycycline, minocycline and tetracycline; other anti-bacterials such as aztreonam, chloramphenicol, clindamycin, linezolid, nitrofurantoin and vancomycin; alpha blocker agents such as doxazosin, prazosin and terazosin; calcium-channel blockers such as amlodipine, bepridil, diltiazem, felodipine, isradipine, nicardipine, nifedipine, nisoldipine and verapamil; other anti-hypertensive agents such as clonidine, diazoxide, fenoldopan, hydralazine, minoxidil, nitroprusside, phenoxybenzamine, epoprostenol, tolazoline, treprostinil and nitrate-based agents; anti-coagulant agents, including heparins and heparinoids such as heparin, dalteparin, enoxaparin, tinzaparin and fondaparinux; other anti-coagulant agents such as hirudin, aprotinin, argatroban, bivalirudin, desirudin, lepirudin, warfarin and ximelagatran; anti-platelet agents such as abciximab, clopidogrel, dipyridamole, optifibatide, ticlopidine and tirofiban; prostaglandin PDE-5 inhibitors and other prostaglandin agents such as alprostadil, carboprost, sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil; thrombin inhibitors; antithrombogenic agents; anti-platelet aggregating agents; thrombolytic agents and/or fibrinolytic agents such as alteplase, anistreplase, reteplase, streptokinase, tenecteplase and urokinase; anti-proliferative agents such as sirolimus, tacrolimus, everolimus, zotarolimus, paclitaxel and mycophenolic acid; hormonal-related agents including levothyroxine, fluoxymestrone, methyltestosterone, nandrolone, oxandrolone, testosterone, estradiol, estrone, estropipate, clomiphene, gonadotropins, hydroxyprogesterone, levonorgestrel, medroxyprogesterone, megestrol, mifepristone, norethindrone, oxytocin, progesterone, raloxifene and tamoxifen; anti-neoplastic agents, including alkylating agents such as carmustine lomustine, melphalan, cisplatin, fluorouracil3, and procarbazine antibiotic-like agents such as bleomycin, daunorubicin, doxorubicin, idarubicin, mitomycin and plicamycin; anti proliferative agents (such as 1,3-cis retinoic acid, 5-fluorouracil, taxol, rapamycin, mitomycin C and cisplatin); antimetabolite agents such as cytarabine, fludarabine, hydroxyurea, mercaptopurine and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU); immune modulating agents such as aldesleukin, imatinib, rituximab and tositumomab; mitotic inhibitors docetaxel, etoposide, vinblastine and vincristine; radioactive agents such as strontium-89; and other anti-neoplastic agents such as irinotecan, topotecan and mitotane.

In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is delivered through the implant to the desired location in the eye, such as the suprachoroidal space of the uveoscleral outflow pathway. In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is delivered to the suprachoroidal space of the uveoscleral outflow pathway in combination with a therapeutic agent delivered via trans pars plana vitrectomy, thereby delivering a therapeutic agent to both sides of the retina. In some embodiments, the implant can improve access of topical medication to the posterior uvea. In some embodiments, the implant is used to deliver a topical medication to treat a chorio-retinal disease.

Comparisons of Certain Implant Delivery Technologies

In some embodiments, the delivery device 110 provides implantation through a preformed or prior corneal incision while the delivery device 210 does so through a self-created and self-sealing incision such that a “closed chamber” operation is performed.

The delivery device 110 is configured, in some embodiments, so that the implant is supported on a trocar wire or obturator in an exposed configuration. In some embodiments, the delivery device 210 supports the implant on a trocar wire or obturator within an insertion or corneal penetration needle.

In some embodiments, the delivery device 110 comprises a silicone retainer to hold the implant in place during travel. The delivery device 210, in some embodiments, incorporates a curved delivery system that provides adequate side loads and friction to hold the implant in place during travel and shipping.

The delivery device 110, in certain embodiments, employs a single trigger operation to release the implant. The delivery device 210, in accordance with some embodiments, utilizes a dual trigger operation to expose and release the implant—trocar and implant pusher tube triggers. Once the insertion needle penetrates the cornea, both triggers advance to expose the implant or stent and the trocar and obturator. The front pusher tube trigger locks the pusher tube in a forward position, thereby preventing the implant or stent from retracting back into the needle. After implant or stent implantation, the rear trocar trigger is retracted to retract the trocar and release the implant or stent.

Some Desirable Features and Advantages

It should be appreciated, in accordance with some embodiments, that the disclosed implant is prevented from backward movement based advantageously on the delivery device configuration. For example, the implant 120 is prevented from backward movement because of the insertion sleeve's distal end relative dimensioning and the implant 220 is prevented from backward movement because of pusher tube's distal end relative dimensioning.

Moreover, because of the material properties of the disclosed trocars, creep during shelf life should advantageously not be an issue of concern. Also, in accordance with some embodiments, given that the implants and trocars are asymmetrically curved, this orientation as packaged, prevents any undesirable rotation of the implants with respect to the trocars even when in use. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments, at least the implants and trocars have predetermined curvatures which, because of their selected flexibility, can conform to the particular space or ocular location they are inserted or advanced into.

In some embodiments, the delivery device 110 is configured for use in combination with another ocular surgery, such as cataract surgery. The delivery device 110 can include a preloaded implant 120 and have a pre-curved tip. The device 110 advantageously has an ergonomic handpiece.

In some embodiments, the delivery device 210 is configured for stand-alone, in-office surgery without being performed in conjunction with other ocular surgery (e.g., cataract surgery). The delivery device 210 can include a preloaded implant 220 and can have a pre-curved tip. Also, in some embodiments, the device 210 has integrated corneal penetration and closed chamber capability so as to perform the procedure through a self-sealing incision. The device 210 advantageously includes an ergonomic handpiece.

Certain embodiments provide for the implant, trocar and/or the pusher tube to flex and allow for the implant to conform to the anatomy of the suprachoroidal space.

The delivery device geometries, such as with respect to the attack angle and curvature, can advantageously ensure proper placement of the implant in the suprachoroidal space, supraciliary space, or other anatomical space.

In some embodiments, the low friction (polyethylene on polycarbonate) trigger operation, in accordance with some embodiments, advantageously allows for smooth operation during the delivery procedures. The safety clips may advantageously prevent undesirable trigger motion during shipment and transportation of the delivery devices.

Embodiments of the trocar or obturator material and tip shape provide several advantages which include: use of high temper stainless spring steel; pointed enough tip to pierce ciliary muscle attachment; rounded enough tip to prevent irritation/tissue damage in suprachoroidal space at sclera/choroid; material and shape allows constant force against sclera during advancement in order to assure proper placement of implant within suprachoroidal space; and trocar curvature generally matches implant or stent shape to prevent plastic creep during shelf life.

With respect to embodiments of the delivery device 210, the curved, flared and coated stainless steel insertion or corneal penetration needle is advantageously shaped to fit anatomically within eye the and avoid iris touch. Also, the tight corneal incision can minimize fluid loss from the eye by forming a substantially closed chamber self-sealing entry. Moreover, the lowered sliding friction of the needle shaft once in the eye may advantageously prevent movement during this delicate surgery, and any resultant loss of view during any interoperative gonioscopy.

In some embodiments, and once again with respect to embodiments of the delivery device 210, the superelastic nitinol pusher tube provides backup support for the implant or stent during implantation, and allows minimal sliding force during trigger operation. Also, in accordance with some embodiments, the polyethylene protective tube prevents damage to the needle tip during shipment.

The delivery device 210, in accordance with some embodiments, can advantageously be used in “closed chamber” procedure so that: no viscoelastic is required to inflate the anterior chamber; there is minimal loss of fluid from anterior chamber (this reduces chance of hypotony; no separate blade is required to form the corneal incision; results in faster surgery; there is only one time entry into the eye; a safer procedure with less chance or lowered probability for adverse event (e.g., endophthalmitis); and less expensive and more cost effective.

The curved insertion needle, trocar or obturator, and pusher tube of the delivery device 210 also, in certain embodiments allows for retention of the implant or stent shape during shipping to prevent creep (such as, loss of implant or stent curvature). Moreover, the closed-chamber procedure can allow for enhanced surgical safety in a non-deepened anterior chamber by substantially matching the curvature of cornea and allowing traversing of the eye in an ab interno procedure.

Methods

The methods which are described and illustrated herein are not limited to the sequence of acts described, nor are they necessarily limited to the practice of all of the acts set forth. Other sequences of acts, or less than all of the acts, or simultaneous occurrence of the acts, may be utilized in practicing embodiments of the invention(s).

Ranges

It is to be understood that any range of values disclosed, taught or suggested herein comprises all values and sub-ranges therebetween. For example, a range from 5 to 10 will comprise all numerical values between 5 and 10 and all sub-ranges between 5 and 10.

CONCLUSION

From the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that a novel approach for intraocular pressure control has been disclosed. While the components, techniques and aspects of embodiments of the invention have been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is manifest that many changes may be made in the specific designs, constructions and methodology herein above described without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

While a number of preferred embodiments of the invention and variations thereof have been described in detail, other modifications and methods of using and medical, diagnostic, research and therapeutic applications for the same will be apparent to those of skill in the art. Accordingly, it should be understood that various applications, modifications, and substitutions may be made of equivalents without departing from the spirit of embodiments of the invention or the scope of the claims.

Various modifications and applications of the embodiments of the invention may occur to those who are skilled in the art, without departing from the true spirit or scope of the embodiments of the invention. It should be understood that the invention(s) is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein for purposes of exemplification, but is to be defined only by a fair reading of the appended claims, including the full range of equivalency to which each element thereof is entitled. 

1.-30. (canceled)
 31. An ocular implant delivery system, comprising: a generally elongated outer housing; an elongated insertion needle partially disposed in and extending outwardly from the outer housing, the insertion needle having a lumen; a pusher tube assembly comprising an implant pusher tube and a pusher tube collar fixedly attached to a proximal portion of the implant pusher tube, a distal portion of the implant pusher tube extending through the lumen of the insertion needle; a trocar assembly comprising a trocar and a trocar collar fixedly attached to a proximal portion of the trocar, a distal portion of the trocar passing through a lumen of the implant pusher tube; an implant supported on the distal portion of the trocar, wherein a distal tip of the trocar extends distally beyond a distal-most end of the implant when the implant is supported on the distal portion of the trocar; and a trocar trigger operatively coupled to the trocar assembly such that a first actuation of the trocar trigger causes the trocar assembly to move the pusher tube assembly distally relative to the insertion needle to a distal locked position, wherein the implant is exposed from the insertion needle for implantation in a suprachoroidal space of an eye when the pusher tube assembly is at the distal locked position, the trocar trigger being further configured such that a second actuation of the trocar trigger causes the distal tip of the trocar to move proximal to the distal-most end of the implant, thereby releasing the implant from being supported on the distal portion of the trocar.
 32. The delivery system of claim 31, wherein the implant is configured to drain fluid from an anterior chamber to the suprachoroidal space.
 33. The delivery system of claim 31, wherein the elongated insertion needle is configured to create a self-sealing corneal incision having a size of about 1 mm or less.
 34. The delivery system of claim 31, wherein the elongated insertion needle has a non-linear exposed distal portion, wherein the implant pusher tube has a non-linear distal portion, and wherein the trocar has a non-linear distal portion.
 35. The delivery system of 34, wherein the non-linear distal portion of the trocar has a predetermined curvature to allow a proper angle of attack to penetrate ocular tissue to provide access for implantation of the implant in the suprachoroidal space.
 36. The delivery system of claim 34, wherein the non-linear exposed distal portion of the insertion needle, the non-linear distal portion of the implant pusher tube, and the non-linear distal portion of the trocar have a substantially matching curvature.
 37. The delivery system of claim 36, wherein the implant has a curvature that substantially conforms to the substantially matching curvature of the insertion needle, the implant pusher tube, and the trocar.
 38. An ocular implant delivery system, comprising: a generally elongated outer housing; an elongated insertion needle partially disposed in and extending outwardly from the outer housing, the insertion needle having a lumen and a non-linear exposed distal portion; an implant pusher tube extending through the lumen of the insertion needle and having a non-linear distal portion; a trocar passing through a lumen of the implant pusher tube and having a non-linear distal portion; an implant disposed on the non-linear distal portion of the trocar and being positioned within the non-linear exposed distal portion of the insertion needle, a proximal face of the implant being in contact with a distal face of the implant pusher tube such that the distal face of the implant pusher tube stops the proximal face of the implant from moving proximal of the distal face of the pusher tube; and a trocar trigger disposed on the outer housing, the trocar trigger being movable between a proximal-most position and a distal-most position, the trocar trigger configured to move the trocar and the implant pusher tube distally relative to the insertion needle when the trocar trigger is moved from the proximal-most position to the distal-most position, the pusher tube being configured to lock relative to the housing when the trocar trigger reaches the distal-most position, the trocar trigger being further configured to move the trocar distally relative to the implant pusher tube when the trocar trigger moves from the proximal-most position to the distal-most position.
 39. The delivery system of claim 38, wherein the implant is configured to drain fluid from an anterior chamber to a suprachoroidal space.
 40. The delivery system of claim 38, wherein the insertion needle is configured to create a self-sealing corneal incision having a size of about 1 mm or less.
 41. The delivery system of 38, wherein the non-linear distal portion of the trocar has a predetermined curvature to allow a proper angle of attack to penetrate ocular tissue to provide access for implantation of the implant in a suprachoroidal space.
 42. The delivery system of claim 38, wherein the non-linear exposed distal portion of the insertion needle, the non-linear distal portion of the implant pusher tube, and the non-linear distal portion of the trocar have a substantially matching curvature.
 43. The delivery system of claim 42, wherein the implant has a curvature that substantially conforms to the substantially matching curvature of the insertion needle, the implant pusher tube, and the trocar.
 44. An ocular implant delivery system, comprising: a generally elongated outer housing; an elongated insertion needle partially disposed in and extending outwardly from the outer housing, the insertion needle having a lumen; an implant pusher tube fixedly attached to a pusher tube collar, a distal portion of the implant pusher tube extending through the lumen of the insertion needle, the implant pusher tube having a lumen; a trocar fixedly attached to a trocar collar, a non-linear distal portion of the trocar passing through the lumen of the implant pusher tube, the trocar collar being disposed proximal of the pusher tube collar, the trocar collar being arranged such that moving the trocar collar in a distal direction relative to the outer housing moves the pusher tube collar in the distal direction relative to the outer housing; and an implant disposed on the non-linear distal portion of the trocar, the implant comprising an implant body and a proximal implant sleeve disposed over the implant body, the implant body comprising distal and proximal stops that hold the sleeve longitudinally in place with respect to the implant body, the proximal stop being sized so that the implant cannot move proximally past the implant pusher tube.
 45. The delivery system of claim 44, wherein the elongated insertion needle has a non-linear exposed distal portion and the implant pusher tube has a non-linear distal portion.
 46. The delivery system of claim 44, wherein the non-linear distal portion of the trocar has a predetermined curvature to allow a proper angle of attack to penetrate ocular tissue to provide access for implantation of the implant in the suprachoroidal space.
 47. The delivery system of claim 45, wherein the non-linear exposed distal portion of the insertion needle, the non-linear distal portion of the implant pusher tube, and the non-linear distal portion of the trocar have a substantially matching curvature.
 48. The delivery system of claim 47, wherein the implant has a curvature that substantially conforms to the substantially matching curvature of the insertion needle, the implant pusher tube, and the trocar.
 49. The delivery system of claim 44, wherein the implant comprises a therapeutic agent.
 50. The delivery system of claim 44, wherein the trocar comprises a distal tip configured to separate an iris process away from a scleral spur. 